A field guide to bacteria /

In writing this Field Guide, Dyer (Wheaton College) has done such an excellent job that even an amateur naturalist will find it interesting and adaptable. Dyer begins with introductory remarks on taxonomy, nomenclature, and ecology of bacteria. Then, each of the following 18 chapters discusses a major taxonomic group of bacteria. The book ends with simple techniques for growing bacteria and observing them under microscope. Thus, it can be used in the field by anyone who wants to study bacteria in nature. Besides describing environmental and ecological aspects of each branch of bacterial family tree, the author also explains how to find these bacteria by smell, touch, and macroscopic observations. The 98 color plates describing various forms of bacteria in their natural habitats are superbly reproduced. The only deficiency one can point out is inadequacy in describing various techniques such as inoculations of broth and solid media, staining, and different components of a microscope. Nonetheless, it is potentially a wonderful resource for those who are interested in studying bacterial ecology--amateur naturalists, biology teachers, or even professional microbiologists, and should find a lasting home in the collections of all of them. ^BSumming Up: Highly recommended. All levels. A. M. Dhople Florida Institute of Technology

This isn't a book on how to avoid E.coli and other nefarious bacteria that invade our food and homes, but an amateur naturalist's guide to all sorts of bacteria that can be seen (and smelled) without a microscope, from their habitats (hot springs, marine mud flats, even urban areas), to how to recognize and identify them in all their remarkable diversity. After all, the author reminds us, bacteria are "the most predominant organisms on Earth," and she even recommends taking a "bacteriocentric" point of view in order to understand them. All the major groupings are covered, along with information on how to culture bacteria, use a microscope and practice good safety precautions. More than 100 color illustrations will assist the happy bacteria hunter as well. (June) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved